Ontario Writers' Conference FAQs
Blue Pencil Sessions
What are they?
A blue pencil session is a gift of an opportunity to sit down with a writing mentor over three pages of double-spaced, 12-pt. writing of your own. The 15-minute time slot with a mentor that you select from our list will allow you to receive feedback (not editing) to the submission that you send us in advance. You can chat about your writing life, your process and any problems/issues you’re having in the writing itself. You can flag an area of concern in your written material for your mentor to address. You will bring a second copy in order to follow along. Take whatever critiquing you get and filter it through your own sensibilities. After all you are the author and creator of your work and the one who makes the ultimate decision about any changes. This option is an add-on to your conference registration and will be charged an extra fee.
Pitch Sessions
Pitch Sessions
A pitch session is the chance to present your ‘elevator pitch’ (a quick synopsis with hook for interest) to an agent after they have read your previously submitted first manuscript-page (double-spaced, 12-pt.) and a synopsis of said manuscript. The 15-minute time slot with a mentor that you select from our list will allow you to receive feedback (not editing) to the submission that you send us in advance. You can chat about your writing life, your process and any problems/issues you’re having in the writing itself. You will bring a second copy in order to follow along. Take whatever critiquing you get and filter it through your own sensibilities. After all you are the author and creator of your work and the one who makes the ultimate decision about any changes. This option is an add-on to your conference registration and will be charged an extra fee.
Conference
Where is it held?
Our fourth Ontario Writers’ Conference will be held on Saturday, May 5th, 2012 at Deer Creek Golf Club, 2700 Audley Rd. N. Ajax, Ontario L1Z 1T7.
General
Is there an age limit?
Yes, the attendees must be at least 16 years of age.
How do I volunteer?
Your contact person is Janet Boccone and you can send her a message at info@thewritersconference.com
Do we get to mingle with authors and speakers?
You will have the opportunity to meet and mingle with many of the speakers, workshop facilitators, mentors and readers during the long day of activity – in the elevator, in the hallways, over drinks. Grab your opportunities. Make your own connections.
Registration
When will registration open?
Registration opens January 1st, 2012. Gift certificates will be available on December 1st, 2011 for easy holiday giving. You can sign up for our newsletter or watch our website for that.
Advanced Level Workshops
You might be asking yourself how you’ll know if you’re ready for an advanced level workshop. If you’ve been writing for a long time, polishing your work, participating in writers’ feedback groups, you’re ready. Your internal confidence meter will tell you so. You can move past introductory lessons to a higher calibre of work.
Need to cancel?
Please contact Kevin Craig at kcraig@thewritersconference.com or call 905-985-4409. Remember, cancellations after January 31st pay a $75 cancellation fee and fees are non-refundable after March 15th.
Questions about the registration process?
Contact Kevin Craig at kcraig@thewritersconference.com and he’ll be pleased to assist you.
Do I register for the conference and a hotel stay separately?
The short answer is yes. You can find information about hotels here.
How will I know I’ve been registered?
After you’ve registered we’ll send you a prompt confirmation of your registration and follow-up information about any add-ons (ie – blue pencil session, etc.).
Special Requirements
Wheelchair accessibility?
Most definitely.
Special Dietary Needs?
Please let us know when you register.
Staying Connected
Sign up for our newsletter right here on the website.
Tips & Tricks
What to remember?
Have a great time. Pace yourself. Remember to stay hydrated. Network and mingle. Find your favourite author and chat.
What to wear?
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Layer!
What if I Don’t Like…
Something in particular that’s bugging you? Some things we can deal with right away. Other items can wait for feedback sheets to inform us. We do want to make your OWC experience the best that it can be. Let us know of any concerns!
Who do I contact…
To suggest presenters?
Please send along their names and contact information and we’d be happy to get in touch with them. We are a “working” conference, so we need to verify and confirm whoever we work with. We appreciate your input!
Workshops
What should I know?
Workshops are long and intense. People will be coming and going for washroom breaks or other needs. We ask you to do your moving in and out as quietly as possible.
|
